The 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt has reported a major crackdown on illegal refineries across the Niger Delta, deactivating three artisanal sites and seizing over 100,000 litres of illegally refined diesel. Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah, the Division’s Public Relations Officer, stated that troops conducted these operations across Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta, recovering large quantities of stolen fuel and arresting five suspects.
Among the deactivated sites was a refinery in Degema with a dugout containing 12,000 litres of stolen diesel, and a large wooden boat carrying 7,000 litres of condensates. Further operations around Degema impounded boats and equipment suspected to be used for oil theft. The crackdown also led to the seizure of 1,800 litres of stolen fuel in Ahoada West LGA, along with a Toyota Sienna loaded with 1,500 litres of suspected condensates.
Troops intercepted more stolen products around Obiafo Oil Field, recovering 11 sacks of stolen fuel and several drilling tools. In Imo Riverside, 16 illegal refining sites and 50 drum pots were dismantled, while 10,000 litres of stolen products were confiscated. Major General Jamal Abdussalam commended the troops for their efforts and urged them to maintain control over the region to foster security and socio-economic growth.
